Did you know that Invisalign has limitations? Are you aware of the tooth issues Invisalign can and can’t fix?
Invisalign is an excellent tooth-straightening alternative to traditional braces. It’s nearly invisible, less invasive, and is removable for more effective oral hygiene.
There are many things that Invisalign can treat, but there are cases that Invisialing can’t fix. Some of the questions people have before getting Invisalign are:
- Will Invisalign work on my teeth?
- Can Invisalign fix molars?
- What kind of teeth can Invisalign fix?
- How much can Invisalign fix?
- Can you get Invisalign with bad teeth?
If you have any of these questions and are wondering, “What can Invisalign not fix?” keep reading.
In this blog, we’ll answer many questions surrounding Invisalign, what they can and can’t fix, and how you can get the best orthodontic treatment in Richmond, VA.
Note: Even though dentists can perform Invisalign treatments, we suggest always seeing an orthodontist. They’ll have the ability to make all the necessary adjustments to ensure the treatment plan achieves its desired results the first time.
What Can Invisalign Treat?
Invisalign is a powerful tool for straightening teeth. When done by a trained orthodontic professional, it can treat simple or complex cases.
Here are three of the top questions and answers regarding issues Invisalign can improve.
Can Invisalign Fix an Overbite and Crooked Teeth?
Invisalign is a viable option for crooked teeth or an overbite.
If your teeth are slightly crooked, an Invisalign treatment plan can resolve this issue. By wearing your Invisalign trays for the recommended period, crooked teeth will come into alignment.
Invisalign can also treat an overbite. An overbite (or malocclusion, for anyone looking for the technical term) occurs when your upper front teeth overlap your lower teeth.
Though it’s not always necessary to treat an overbite, it can cause speech impediments, damage to other teeth and gums, or chewing deficiencies. Talking with your orthodontist will provide clarity on the severity of your overbite and need for treatment.
Will Invisalign Fix Crowded Teeth?
Yes, Invisalign can be a helpful tool to push teeth back into place if they become crowded.
Crowded teeth, or dental crowding, happens when people don’t have enough room in their mouth for adult teeth to grow in naturally. Lack of space in the mouth can cause teeth to be crooked or pushed behind other teeth.
Dental crowding can provide opportunities for tartar and plaque to build up. This can lead to periodontal disease and tooth decay. If you decide not to fix overcrowding, you’ll need to practice good oral hygiene.
Otherwise, talk to your orthodontist about Invisalign. It can help realign your teeth and prevent serious oral issues.
Can Invisalign Close Gaps in Teeth?
One of the most common uses for Invisalign is closing small gaps between teeth. Having gaps (or a diastema) in your teeth isn’t necessarily harmful and often doesn’t need to be treated. Most people use Invisalign to close these gaps for aesthetic reasons.
With tooth gaps, there is a higher potential for food to get stuck in your teeth. Without proper oral hygiene, this could lead to gum disease.
Overall, gaps in your teeth are safe, but you can fix them through the use of Invisalign.
What Can Invisalign Not Fix?
Now, let’s look at some of the ways Invisalign is ineffective as an alignment option.
Can Invisalign Fix A Crooked Jaw?
This one is a little complicated, and the answer is “sort of.”
Invisalign can’t treat large jaw bone issues that require surgery. However, Invisalign can help prepare the teeth before the surgery and then be used again after the surgery.
If you have a more severe jaw issue, your orthodontist can help you understand how and when Invisalign will be useful.
What If I Have a Severely Crooked Tooth?
It is challenging to align overly rotated teeth with Invisalign alone. If you think you have a tooth that is too crooked for Invisalign, talk with your orthodontist. They’ll know whether or not Invisalign will be beneficial and then have the ability to perform a different treatment if necessary.
What Can Braces Do That Invisalign Can’t?
One of the most significant Invisalign limitations is its inability to close large gaps in teeth. Invisalign works best with small gaps, while braces can help close larger gaps.
Like a severely crooked tooth, addressing tooth gaps is patient-specific. It’s always a good idea to seek a professional orthodontic opinion if you think your gaps might be too large.
The bottom line is that Invisalign may not be able to effectively close all the gaps in your teeth, in which case braces (or another option) might be appropriate.
Will Invisalign Work on My Teeth?
So, can Invisalign fix any teeth?
Like most things, Invisalign has both advantages and disadvantages. It can treat small gaps in teeth, help with overcrowding, and correct an overbite.
However, if you want to know, “What can Invisalign not fix?” there are many things. For one, it can’t fix serious jaw issues. Invisalign also isn’t a good option for those with any severely crooked teeth or large gaps in their teeth.
Do you have other questions about Invisalign or want to talk with an experienced orthodontist firsthand?
At Bates Orthodontics, we have a highly-trained orthodontist ready to consult with you. Whether you’re looking for straighter teeth or another corrective procedure, we’ll offer professional advice that’s right for you. If braces or Invisalign aren’t what you need, we’ll tell you. We’re more concerned with helping you make the right choice than making you purchase a product.
Schedule a free consultation and let us help you figure out if Invisalign is the right treatment option for you or not.
